If you’ve ever had the craving for something warm, comforting, and nourishing-then Italian Cabbage Soup (or Zuppa di Cavolo) is just the thing. This humble soup is a classic of Italian cuisine, a heart-warming dish that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Packed with vegetables, savory herbs, and a robust broth, it’s a dish that checks all the boxes: healthy, hearty, and satisfying. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a cold winter’s day or searching for a dish that combines flavor and nutrition, this Italian Cabbage Soup is a must-try!
But what makes this soup stand out? Well, it’s the combination of tender cabbage, a burst of flavor from herbs, and the richness of a simmered broth that creates a deeply satisfying experience. Plus, you can easily adjust it to fit various dietary preferences, from vegetarian to meat-lover.
Let’s dive into how to make this delicious soup from scratch!
Italian Cabbage Soup Recipe
This traditional Italian Cabbage Soup is not just a one-pot wonder-it’s a nourishing bowl of joy that offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The cabbage brings a delightful crunch when cooked just right, while the combination of garlic, onions, and herbs gives the broth an aromatic base that deepens the flavor profile as it simmers.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a simple list of the ingredients you’ll need to bring this recipe to life:
- 1 small head of cabbage (about 1.5-2 lbs), coarsely chopped
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a meatier flavor)
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
For those who want an even heartier soup, you can also add:
- 1 cup cooked beans (like cannellini beans, great for extra protein)
- 1/2 cup pasta (small pasta shapes like ditalini work well)
- Parmesan cheese (for grating on top)
Cooking Instructions
Creating this soup doesn’t require any fancy techniques, but it does rely on a slow simmer to meld the flavors together. Follow these steps to make the perfect Italian Cabbage Soup:
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Prepare The Vegetables
- Begin by chopping the cabbage, onion, carrots, and potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic and set aside. If you’re adding beans, drain and rinse them.
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Sauté The Aromatics
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. This helps bring out the sweetness in the onions.
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Build The Soup Base
- Add the carrots and potatoes to the pot and sauté for another 5 minutes. This adds depth and richness to the broth when it cooks.
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Add Broth And Tomatoes
- Pour in the vegetable (or chicken) broth, water, and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine.
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Season The Soup
- Add the oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together. Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Simmer The Soup
- Once it boils, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. The cabbage should be soft but still have a little bite, adding texture to the soup.
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Add The Cabbage
- Add the chopped cabbage to the pot and continue simmering for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cabbage is tender but not mushy. The soup should have a nice balance of flavors and the cabbage should have soaked up the richness of the broth.
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Final Touches
- Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes with a fork or immersion blender.
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Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or basil. For an extra touch, top with grated Parmesan cheese.
Ingredient Insights
Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the ingredients that make this soup so special:
- Cabbage: Cabbage is a powerhouse vegetable that adds both texture and nutrition. Packed with fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, cabbage is a low-calorie food that is great for digestion. Its subtle flavor soaks up the broth perfectly, making it the star of the soup.
- Olive Oil: The foundation of many Italian recipes, olive oil adds a rich, slightly fruity flavor. It’s also full of healthy fats that help to absorb the nutrients from the vegetables.
- Herbs: Oregano and basil are staples in Italian cooking, and they provide a fragrant, earthy undertone to the soup. These herbs pair wonderfully with the acidity of tomatoes and the richness of the broth.
- Potatoes & Carrots: These root vegetables not only make the soup heartier but also provide natural sweetness and creaminess as they cook.
- Broth: Whether you use vegetable or chicken broth, it forms the base of the soup. It’s what brings all the flavors together and creates that cozy, warm feeling with each spoonful.
Expert Tips
To elevate your Italian Cabbage Soup even further, consider these expert tips:
- Let It Rest: Like many soups, this one often tastes even better the next day. If you can, make it ahead of time and let it sit for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add a Parmesan Rind: If you have a leftover Parmesan rind, toss it into the soup while it’s simmering. The rind will infuse the broth with a rich, cheesy flavor. Just remember to remove it before serving.
- Season at the End: Always taste your soup before serving and adjust the seasoning. The broth may have reduced during simmering, so you may need a pinch more salt or pepper for balance.
- Use an Immersion Blender: For a thicker, creamier texture, use an immersion blender to purée part of the soup. Just blend a few spoonfuls of the soup and leave the rest chunky for a nice contrast.
Recipe Variations
There are endless ways to customize Italian Cabbage Soup based on your preferences:
- Meat Lover’s Version: Add sausage or bacon for a meaty, smoky flavor. You could brown Italian sausage and stir it into the soup at the beginning for a rich, savory twist.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: Keep it light and vegetarian by using vegetable broth and adding extra beans or greens like spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
- Spicy Twist: If you love heat, amp up the red pepper flakes or add a sliced jalapeño for a spicier kick.
- Pasta Option: Add small pasta like ditalini, orzo, or even farfalle for a heartier meal. Just cook the pasta separately and stir it in at the end to avoid it becoming too soft.
- Creamy Variation: For a creamy touch, stir in some heavy cream or half-and-half near the end of cooking.
Final Words
Italian Cabbage Soup is the epitome of comfort food: simple, nourishing, and full of flavor. It’s an incredibly versatile dish that you can tailor to your tastes or dietary needs. Whether you stick with the classic version or add your own spin, one thing’s for sure: each spoonful will transport you straight to a cozy Italian kitchen.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For An Italian Cabbage Soup Recipe?
The basic ingredients for an Italian cabbage soup include cabbage, olive oil, garlic, onions, carrots, celery, tomatoes (either fresh or canned), vegetable broth (or chicken broth), and seasoning such as salt, pepper, and Italian herbs like basil and oregano. Some variations might include beans or pasta.
Can I Make Italian Cabbage Soup With Meat?
Yes, you can add meat such as Italian sausage, ground beef, or pancetta to enhance the flavor. Brown the meat first before adding vegetables and broth for a richer taste.
Is Italian Cabbage Soup Healthy?
Italian cabbage soup is generally considered healthy. It’s low in calories and fat, while being high in fiber and vitamins from the cabbage and other vegetables. Using vegetable broth or lean meats can keep it light and nutritious.
How Do I Store Leftover Italian Cabbage Soup?
Leftover Italian cabbage soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Be sure to cool the soup completely before refrigerating or freezing.
Can I Make Italian Cabbage Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can make Italian cabbage soup vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth, and omitting any meat. You can also add beans or extra vegetables to make the soup heartier.
How Can I Thicken Italian Cabbage Soup?
To thicken Italian cabbage soup, you can add mashed potatoes, purée some of the soup, or add a handful of rice or small pasta. You can also simmer the soup for a longer time to allow it to reduce and concentrate the flavors.
What Spices Or Herbs Work Best In Italian Cabbage Soup?
Common spices and herbs that pair well with Italian cabbage soup include garlic, oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, and red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. You can also season with salt and pepper to taste.
Can I Use Frozen Cabbage In This Soup Recipe?
While fresh cabbage is typically preferred for its texture, you can use frozen cabbage if it’s all you have available. However, it may become softer and release more water than fresh cabbage, which can alter the texture of the soup.
Is Italian Cabbage Soup Gluten-free?
Italian cabbage soup can easily be made gluten-free. Just ensure you’re using gluten-free broth and avoid adding pasta that contains gluten. You can substitute gluten-free pasta or skip it entirely.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Italian Cabbage Soup?
The cooking time for Italian cabbage soup is usually about 1 hour. This includes time for sautéing vegetables and simmering the soup to allow the flavors to meld. If you’re using a slow cooker, it can take around 6-8 hours on low.